Anti-mask graffiti found on Hamilton schools ahead of mask mandate Monday

A spokesperson for Hamilton’s public school board says someone spray painted “no masks” on the outside of its Westdale Secondary School building Friday morning.

The vandalism comes four days after Hamilton Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) trustees passed a motion to temporarily require students and staff to wear masks inside of schools.

“The contents of the graffiti expressed concerns over a response to protective health measures,” said Shawn McKillop, manager of communications at HWDSB.

“Our priority is to reduce the spread of respiratory illness through a temporary universal masking requirement to ensure that our schools are in the safest conditions.”

READ MORE: Hamilton public school board trustees pass temporary indoor mask policy

McKillop confirmed that the graffiti has been removed.

Hamilton police have also been notified of the vandalism.

“We take these types of incidents very seriously,” McKillop said.

He said Cootes Paradise Elementary and Dalewood Elementary schools also reported similar graffiti on its buildings Friday.

READ MORE: Hamilton students allowed to opt-out of mask requirement

HWDSB provided further information Thursday to parents and students regarding its temporary masking requirement set to take effect Monday.

It said students will need permission if they would like to opt out.

Parents and guardians will have to submit a “Mask Opt-Out” form, which can be obtained through the HWDSB website or at any school. They can also notify the school verbally.